Ibrahim Abdullahi Osanga, former Nasarawa United chairman, praised the NPFL’s Interim Management Committee (IMC) led by Gbenga Elegbeleye for elevating the country’s premier football league.
On Tuesday, Osanga told LEADERSHIP Sports that the IMC had enhanced the league’s image by eliminating the win-at-home syndrome.
The IMC has transformed the Nigeria Professional Football League storyline by eliminating the must-win-at-home mindset. The best team wins now. We’re going and will get there if we keep up Gbenga Elegbeleye and the IMC’s fine work.
We now witness terrific football at our stadiums, where the best team triumphs. “I think Elegbeleye and his colleagues deserve appreciation,” Osanga said.
He encouraged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) leadership to extend the duration and mission of the IMC beyond the current football league for three or four more seasons to allow the committee to stabilize the system in line with global best practice. …
“I don’t know Elegbeleye, but I can state loud and clear that he is doing an excellent job and should be allowed to remain beyond the current season for another three or four seasons to stabilize the system.
Nigeria has continuity issues. If they replace Elegbeleye and his crew, they may not continue their excellent work in cleaning up our league. If they allow them to continue for three or four seasons, people will start flocking to stadiums to watch matches because they would get value for their money and time, unlike before when you already knew which club would win.
Osanga urged the committee to keep improving the officiating.
“They need to enhance officiating—all it’s about money but adding value. Your legacy will outlast money. Osanga said they should quit interfering in the league to help clubs gain continental tickets or avoid relegation.
